LEAP of FAITH

Well, I can't believe I have 4 sleeps to go till I fly to Africa-Uganda!

I was accepted as part of a global team to visit Kampala, Africa.  I will be volunteering for 18 days in the orphanage named The Baby Bulrushes in Watoto Children's Village. 

I am Testament to dreams coming true...however, this has not come easy and has been a learning process for me. 

You see, in order for this dream to come true, I had to step out in faith and actually allow myself to dream bigger and beyond my existing circumstances.  God keeps reminding me of the scripture in Ephesians 3.  I have to say this would have to be my favourite at chapter in the Message bible at the moment. 

Verse 20;

God can do anything you know, far more than you can ever imagine, guess or request in your wildest dreams!  He does it not by pushing us around, but by working in us...

Sometimes, we are our own worst enemy!

 

Paul was in jail when he was urging us to believe God can do anything we can ever ask, think or imagine in our wildest dreams!  (The Message Bible is the best!).  And only then, if we grasp that concept, he urges us as humanity to reach out and experience the extravagant dimensions of Christ's love.  I can't even imagine the incredible Faith he must have had to write those words we read today in the scriptures.

So I figure... I am not even in jail and I often don't even expect God to heal a migraine I may have....  I realised that I am not trusting God in every area of my life.  I don't want to miss out on the amazing plans and purposes God has for me and my life.

In verse 12 of The Message Bible, Paul says that when we trust Him (being God), then we can be free to say whatever needs to be said, and bold to go wherever we need to go!

This challenged me, so I started speaking out loud to friends and family that I was going to Africa.  There is such power in the words that we speak out. (James 3:7-10)

What surprised me was that all my friends and family actually encouraged, supported and believed in me and had more Faith then I had for my own life!

So here I am four sleeps away from embarking on a faith filled journey of the heart to a continent that I believe God weeps over and rejoices over both at the same time.

This is an amazing leap of faith for me and I am so overwhelmed by God opportunities and provisions throughout the year that has made this dream a reality.....  

However, in my quiet times with God He softly whispers in my heart that this is only the beginning! 

 

Awaken Our Hearts

I have recently been studying the Book of John and the story of Lazarus came alive for me in a new and refreshing way.  (Pardon the Pun!!!)  
John 11:11-14 reads...

Then he said, “Our friend Lazarus has fallen asleep, but now I will go and wake him up.”
12 The disciples said, “Lord, if he is sleeping, he will soon feel better!” 13 They thought Jesus meant Lazarus was simply sleeping, but Jesus meant Lazarus had died.
 14 So he told them plainly, “Lazarus is dead.


Sometimes I feel like I am dead (spiritually) in many areas of my life where I have become desensatised to what's going on around me in the church and even in the world. I find myself justifying (very good and worthy) reasons as to why I can't do more and "extend my tent pegs"... People around me would sometimes think I am only "sleeping" and also think that it's good for me to take that "time out" or "soulspace" for a "season" (everyone loves the word season!.. I try to!) However it is God alone who knows my heart exactly and where I am at. I feel that just recently he has declared me Dead within many areas of my heart  and had to bring me back to life with his unrelenting comfort and love surrounding my hurts and wounds. We cannot come back to life though when we are busy busy busy.. We need to rest in Him but also specifically address those hurts and wounds.

I was thinking too that when my spirit does feel like it is dead, especially in some areas, I start to react like Mary did in verse 32...

32 When Mary arrived and saw Jesus, she fell at his feet and said, “Lord, if only you had been here, my brother would not have died.”

I often feel sorry for myself and say to God.."well I wouldn't be dead in this area if  only you were here and come through for me to answer my prayers! How often do we blame God after things unravel and our faith is depleted?!

In John 11 people were saying "well he can heal a blind man, why can't He heal Lazarus." When I am believing for answers to prayer I find myself constantly thinking how small this request is for God in the big scheme of things!  After all, He can do above all I ask, think and imagine.... And yet my faith can't seem to rise to the level needed in that moment.. Arrgh!

So this scripture was a good reminder of the message we heard from Christine Caine at Colour Conference this year when she said arise and awaken! 

Eph5:14 says
Awake you who sleep and rise from the dead and he will give you light....
We doze off oblivious to God from all the work and distractions we do for family, friends and church and neglect to take care of the condition of our heart.
Proverbs 4:23 say
Above ALL else guard your heart, for out of it comes the wellspring of life.  


So lets awaken to God's alarm clock and not waste time here on Earth for the bible tells us our time here is but a vapour, (scary thought!!)  Lets not press the snooze button but be wide awake (and not dead!) ready to fulfil all God has called us to do in our lifetime, for we are the evidence of God here on this Earth.

Lambs Become Lions

This week, I had such a revelation moment... everyone thinks I am so open but after starting this blog,  I realised that I actually keep so much to myself.. Probably too much, especially when I need to share a burden. I also realised that I am very selective with who and how much I share my heart with. I went to see Robin Hood this week, there was a scene with a scribe written on the handle of a sword which really spoke to me..(God always speaks to me in movies!) if you have seen this movie, you might remember it said..

"Rise and Rise Again Until Lambs Become Lions" 

OMG! 


This statement spoke to the very core of who I am. God showed me that I have been a lamb for too many years, all quiet and tender and friendly but he wants - and needs me to rise up and become a lioness in order to fulfil all he has for me here on earth. I love how it says.. "Rise, and Rise Again" because sometimes we need to rise again in the midst of our battle just when we are feeling defeated. I often go into battle but don't rise up again on the first feeling of defeat. God doesn't want me to keep my heart all locked away at the fear of getting hurt. That's where our enemy keeps us contained. 

So, watch out as I become a Lioness!!! I have many amazing friends in my life who I have watched do this very well and are a constant reminder and encouragement.  This blog will be good for me to entrust my heart a little more to all of you...

Captivating

Thank you to Extravagant Grace (http://www.extravagantgrace.net/) for your post on the book Captivating.  This book has also changed my life and has been a defining moment in my christian walk with God.  Your every word resonated with my soul, so I would like to take this opportunity to share it on my blog also......

Few books have had a greater impact on me than one written by John and Stasi Eldredge.  Captivating* unleashed the healing work the Lord began through revealing the truths of Scripture with emotional and physical application.

Over the last 2 years, I have had the honour and privilege of facilitating a Captivating course 3 times and I am currently half way through my 4th time.  I would recommend this course to every women.  We usually have a group of women up to ten at a time and meet weekly for ten weeks.  The course involves watching a 45 minute DVD with Stasi and her friends navigating their feelings towards the complexities of a women's heart.  We then discuss different questions which lead us to a deeper level in God and our relationship with Him.

The very words and examples penned in Captivating translated into definitions for principles the Spirit of God was revealing to me over a period of years.  The confirmation was life-changing, providing a launching point to move forward in spiritual and emotional growth.

In the chapter entitled, "Wounded," they write,

"Our wounds strike at the core of our femininity.  The damage done to our feminine hearts through the wounds we received is made much worse by the horrible things we believe about ourselves as a result.  As children, we didn't have the faculties to process and sort through what was happening to us.  Our parents were godlike.  We believed them to be right.  If we were overwhelmed or belittled or hurt or abused, we believe that somehow it was because of us--the problem was with us."

This was a life-changing perspective:  to acknowledge that my thinking was shaped so many years earlier and that the process of changing my life habits now -- the ones working against me -- begins with finding God's truth to replace the lies I built my life upon.

The Eldredge's not only identify how we ended up "here," but also give clear instruction in how to move forward.  Each chapter is rich in Biblical teaching, examples, and hope.

I believe that every single woman, from the age of 14 through 104, should read Captivating.  God will use it to change her heart and fill her with compassion, enabling her to touch the hearts and souls of those women around her as she minister's His truth in love.

If you would like to follow Stasi Eldridge's blog or find out about her course, follow this link http://blog.ransomedheart.com/

LIVE FREE WALK

For weeks we have been eagerly anticipating the “Walk For Her Freedom” event.  Finally the day had arrived and God blessed us with perfect Gold Coast weather.

On Saturday 17^th April at 3pm, we arrived at Tallebudgera Surf Life Saving Club on the Gold Coast Highway.

There was an excited atmosphere as 110 women, young and old gathered from South East Queensland united for a common cause.  We were honoured and privileged to have Julie Flatt and her dedicated team from Teen Challenge join us.

The T-Shirts supplied by Teen Challenge were very popular and worn with pride.  Many people stopped us during the walk to ask curious questions.  This was a great opportunity to raise awareness for our cause.

 The 5km walk was full of many different types of scenery.  We started beachside where the water was beautiful and inviting.  We crossed Tallebudgera Creek bridge and entered into the Burleigh Hedland National Park.  All the way being encouraged by Marshalls at regular intervals handing out lolliies and refreshments.

We passed families spending time together and children on swings.  We even passed 3 beautiful weddings that captured our attention and added romance to our day!  Many unique connections and special friendships were formed along the way.

Nearing the end of our walk we embarked up Burleigh Hill and then down eight flights of stairs where we were cheered by our friends and families upon our arrival at Don McSweeney Park, Marine Parade, Miami. 

The park was full of fun and entertainment including a jumping castle, BBQ, face painting and music.  Everyone who participated in the walk signed their names on an art mural to commemorate the day.

There was a lucky walker prize drawn at dusk to finish off a perfect day.  The prize, (which was generously donated for the day), was 2 nights accommodation, including breakfast for 2 at Peppers Resort, Kingscliffe. 

The team at Teen Challenge that birthed and pioneered the Live Free walk can be commended for the success of their first year.  800 walkers participated in 12 walks throughout the Northern Territory and Queensland.  We can only look forward to future years to come with the growth of awareness and participation.  We eagerly await the positive reports showing the impact our fundraising has had in women’s lives. 

A great day was had by all!

DO OUR POSSESSIONS POSSESS US?

This week I have witnessed such heartache and loss through total injustice through the sins of others.  My close friend came home in the middle of the day only to find her house had been broken into.  This type of experience (which I have never had to personally endure), would be devastating to live through.  Our homes should be a place of safety and haven for our family.  When there is a break-in it is a violation of privacy and security.

During the proceeding days that followed the break-in, my friend was making a list of all the stolen items.  This list was growing fast and full of priceless items, both financially and sentimentally.  There will never be a good enough explanation of what, when, where or how for any heartless crime.  So we go to scripture for comfort and reassurance.  I know the bible tells us......

• Do not to be materialistic and store up for yourselves treasures here on earth where moths and rust can destroy and where thieves can break in and steal.  But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven.  For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also (Matthew 6:19)
• Whoever trusts in his riches will fall (Proverbs 11:28)

But surely these scriptures do not mean we need to live like paupers in order to save ourselves from the sins of this world?

Surely this does not mean that our hearts are not for the good of growing the kingdom of God because we may own nice possessions in our homes?

Of course not! But it does pose these questions to us.. 

Do our possessions possess us?

If we lost them all today...would we blame God?

What occupies most of our thoughts, time and efforts ... Kingdom Rewards or Earthly Rewards?

We can spend all our lives collecting and storing treasures on earth only to die and leave it all behind!

However, the bible also talks about leaving an inheritance to our children, not only that, but our children's children! (Proverbs 13:22)  I believe this can include physical as well as spiritual.

It is in times of need and despair that Kingdom rewards naturally accumulate.  This is because the body of Christ goes into action.. We become the hands and feet of Jesus on earth to comfort and support our friends in need.  I just love it!  

As we go from this page, lets be more intentional to store up Kingdom rewards in heaven.

Shoes In Church

Shoes in church  I showered and shaved............. I adjusted my tie. I got there and sat.............. In a pew just in time. Bowing my head in prayer.......... As I closed my eyes. I saw the shoe of the man next to me...... Touching my own. I sighed. With plenty of room on either side....... I thought, "Why must our soles touch?" It bothered me, his shoe touching mine... But it didn't bother him much. A prayer began: "Our Father"............ I thought, "This  man with the shoes.. has no pride.  They're dusty, worn, and scratched. Even worse, there are holes on the side!" "Thank You for blessings," the prayer went on. The shoe man said............... a quiet "Amen." I tried to focus on the prayer....... But my thoughts were on his shoes again. Aren't we supposed to look our best.. When walking through that door? "Well, this certainly isn't it," I thought, Glancing toward the floor. Then the prayer was ended............ And the songs of praise began. The shoe man was certainly loud...... Sounding proud as he sang. His voice lifted the rafters......... His hands were raised high. The Lord could surely hear.. The shoe man's voice from the sky. It was time for the offering....... And what I threw in was steep. I watched as the shoe man reached.... Into his pockets so deep. I saw what was pulled out.......... What the shoe man put in. Then I heard a soft "clink" . as when silver hits tin. The sermon really bored me.......... To tears, and that's no lie. It was the same for the shoe man... For tears fell from his eyes. At the end of the service...... As is the custom here. We must greet new visitors.. And show them all good cheer. But I felt moved somehow.............. And wanted to meet the shoe man. So after the closing prayer........ I reached over and shook his hand. He was old and his skin was dark..... And his hair was truly a mess. But I thanked him for coming......... For being our guest. He said, "My names' Charlie.......... I'm glad to meet you, my friend." There were tears in his eyes....... But he had a large, wide grin. "Let me explain," he said......... Wiping tears from his eyes. "I've been coming here for months.... And you're the first to say 'Hi.'" "I know that my appearance........."Is not like all the rest. "But I really do try................."To always look my best." "I always clean and polish my shoes.."Before my very long walk. "But by the time I get here........."They're dirty and  dusty, like chalk." My heart filled with pain............ and I swallowed to hide my tears. As he continued to apologize......... For daring to sit so near. He said, "When I get here..........."I know I must look a sight. "But I thought if I could touch you.."Then maybe our souls might unite." I was silent for a moment............ Knowing whatever was said Would pale in comparison... I spoke from my heart, not my head. "Oh, you've touched me," I said......"And taught me, in part; "That the best of any man............"Is what is found in his heart." The rest, I thought,................ This shoe man will never know. Like just how thankful I really am... That his dirty old shoe touched my soul

The first time I read this I found tears falling from eyes.
How often does this truly happen in many churches today.  We become so insulated with the people we are regularly connected with that it is sometimes hard to look outside our comfort zone of complacency.

My word for 2010 is PERSPECTIVE!!
Everything in life reflects Perspective....
The man with the dirty shoes actually had a clean heart.  Sometimes our perspective of people on the outside can blind us to what is a deep well within them and therefore cannot see the richness and diversity of their relationship with Christ and what that person has to offer.  I know for me on many occasions God has given me a fresh perspective through the most unlikely source and experience.

Humble yourselves before the Lord and He will lift you up. James 4:10


Humbling ourselves means recognising that our worth comes from God alone.  To walk in humility means not to live according to our own independent effort.  Although we don't deserve God's favour, He freely gives us worth and dignity, despite our human shortcomings and sin. This is how He lifts us up so we can be His hands and feet here on the earth....thats bringing a little piece of Heaven to earth.


God views all people as equals.  Why is it wrong to judge a person by his or her economic status?
Wealth may indicate intelligence, wise decisions and hard work.  But on the other hand, it could be a sign of greed, dishonesty or selfishness.  By honouring someone just because they dress well, we are making appearance more valuable than character. This is polar opposites to God's perspective.